Are legends born or made? – a question often asked, but rarely ever answered. Here’s a movie that proposes legends are both born and made. King Richard (2021) is the biopic of Richard Williams, the father, and coach of the world-renowned tennis players Serena and Venus Williams.
It stars Will Smith in the title role, with Demi Singleton and Saniyya Sidney playing the young sisters. The movie also features other talented cast members like Aunjanue Ellis, Tony Goldwyn, Jon Bernthal, and Dylan McDermott.
Directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green and Written by Zach Baylin, the movie premiered at the 48th Telluride Film Festival on 2nd September, 2021. This will be followed by a theatrical release on 19th November, 2021, by Warner Bros Pictures, and a simultaneous on HBO Max online streaming services. The film was chosen to close the AFI Fest on !4th November, 2021.
It will also screen at the London Film Festival, Chicago International Film Festival, SCAD Savannah Film Festival, Heartland International Film Festival, and Middleburg Film Festival.
An inspirational true story, following an undeterred father who raises two of the most gifted athletes of the century. He faces a wall of resistance as he tries to get them noticed in the elite community that surrounds the sport, butis driven by a clear vision of the future.
He uses unconventional methods to build the champions we know today. Richard takes his two daughters from the streets of Compton to the world stage where they become global icons, changing the game of tennis forever.
King Richard: Filming Location
King Richard was is shot by Oscar-winning cinematographer, Robert Elswit. The film was scheduled to be released in November, 2020, but was delayed due to the pandemic situation.
Los Angeles, California, USA
Principal shooting began in Los Angeles in January, 2020. In March, 2020, however, filming had to be halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In late October, 2020, the shooting resumed. The movie was shot primarily in California to stay true to the original homeland of the sisters. According to the California Film Commission, the production spent $35.6 million in the state.
Filming was reportedly taking place in Windsor, Boulevard between 4th and 5th Streets. Smith and the girl were seen practicing tennis on green lawns, that are seemingly supposed to depict Compton. Filming also went on on Clinton Street on 3rd March, 2020.
After this filming was halted. The 52-year-old actor was once again spotted going back on set on 19th October, 2020. He was seen in white tennis gear, walking among 80s era-inspired cars in the outdoor set of the movie.
The shooting was carried on safely, greeting made only through elbow bumps in lieu of handshakes and the like. Cameras caught Smith shooting scenes of the movie – specifically the one where he seems to get punched in the stomach by some men.
The movie has earned a lot of positive responses from among the critics. There is also a buzz bout Will Smith landing himself an Oscar-worthy role. He may be standing in the forefront of what is going to be a cut-throat race for the Oscar for Best Actor.